2026 Best Online Nursing Programs in Delaware – Accredited RN to BSN Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Choosing an online nursing program in Delaware is not just about finding the lowest tuition or the shortest completion time. The right program must match your current license level, career goal, schedule, transfer credits, clinical requirements, and Delaware Board of Nursing expectations. This matters even more as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and advanced practice settings continue to rely on nurses with stronger academic preparation and current clinical competencies.

For registered nurses, a BSN is increasingly treated as a practical career credential. Nationally, 73% of U.S. RNs hold a baccalaureate degree or higher (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2024). For Delaware nurses, online RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP, and bridge options can make advancement possible without leaving the workforce.

This guide explains how nursing programs in Delaware work, what they may cost, how long different pathways take, how to evaluate online programs, and what career options are available after graduation. It also highlights online nursing programs in Delaware and nearby states so you can compare options with a clearer understanding of accreditation, licensure, flexibility, and return on investment.

Best Online Nursing Programs in Delaware Table of Contents

1. How to become a nurse in Delaware?
2. What is the typical cost of a nursing program in Delaware?
3. How long does it take to become a nurse in Delaware?
4. Can you become a nurse in Delaware with an online degree?
5. Online Nursing Programs in Delaware for 2026
6. Is Delaware good for nurses?
7. Delaware’s Demand for Travel Nursing and Temporary Healthcare Roles
8. What are the licensure renewal and continuing education requirements for nurses in Delaware?
9. What can I do with a nursing degree in Delaware?
10. Does a BSN Offer a Significant Advantage Over an RN in Delaware?
11. How do I evaluate the quality of nursing programs in Delaware?
12. Which Online Nursing Program Offers the Fastest RN to BSN Transition?
13. What job placement support do Delaware nursing programs offer?
14. What are the admission requirements for nursing programs in Delaware?
15. What are the steps to become a nurse practitioner in Delaware?
16. What non-clinical healthcare roles are available in Delaware?
17. How do I become a nurse midwife in Delaware?
18. How can I become an LPN in Delaware?
19. Career Advancement and Specializations in Nursing in Delaware
20. What are the scholarship and financial aid options for online nursing students in Delaware?
21. Salary Potential for DNPs in Delaware and Beyond
22. How can I meet the nursing license requirements in Delaware?

Quick Answer: What is the best path to become a nurse in Delaware?

The best nursing pathway in Delaware depends on your starting point. If you are new to healthcare, you may begin with CNA training, an LPN program, an ADN, or a BSN. If you are already a registered nurse, an online RN-to-BSN program is often the most practical next step because it can strengthen your clinical judgment, leadership preparation, and eligibility for more advanced roles. LPNs and RNs must pass the appropriate NCLEX exam and apply through the Delaware Board of Nursing.

How to become a nurse in Delaware?

Delaware offers several routes into nursing, and each route leads to a different scope of practice. As of 2026, there were 11,149 RNs and 12,743 RNs projected in Delaware (Delaware Department of Labor, n.d.).[2] Before choosing a school, compare the major nursing degree types and levels so you understand which credential matches the license and job you want.

Students who want the fastest entry into patient care may start with certified nursing assistant training. CNA programs in Delaware must be approved by the Division of Health Care Quality, and graduates follow the Delaware CNA registry process after passing the required competency test. This route can help students gain bedside experience before committing to a longer nursing degree.

Students who want to become licensed practical nurses usually complete a practical nursing diploma or approved training program through a recognized school, facility, college, or hospital. LPNs provide direct care under the scope allowed by state law and employer policy. This can be a strong option for students who want a shorter training path before deciding whether to bridge into RN preparation.

To become a registered nurse, students generally complete either an ADN or a BSN. ADN programs can be a lower-cost and faster route to RN licensure, while BSN programs include broader preparation in leadership, community health, research, and evidence-based practice. RNs who already hold an associate degree can use online RN-to-BSN programs to complete bachelor’s-level coursework while continuing to work.

Nurses who want advanced clinical practice, leadership, education, or specialization typically pursue graduate study. Flexible options such as online masters in nursing degrees can help working nurses prepare for APRN or leadership roles, while DNP programs may support advanced practice, systems leadership, or policy-focused career goals.

What is the typical cost of a nursing program in Delaware?

Nursing school costs in Delaware vary by institution type, residency status, program level, credit transfer policy, and whether clinical, technology, lab, exam, and background-check fees are included in the published price. The latest median tuition and fee data for traditional higher education institutions in Delaware for 2024-2025 show the following costs (University of Delaware, 2024):

1. $4,995 in-state public two-year institutions
2. $14,230 in-state public four-year institutions
3. $34,960 out-of-state public four-year institutions
4. $39,400 private nonprofit four-year institutions
5. $15,410 in-state, flagship university (University of Delaware)
6. $37,930 out-of-state, flagship university (University of Delaware)

Online tuition can look simpler than campus tuition, but the final bill may still include program fees, online learning fees, books, supplies, uniforms, immunizations, testing, clinical clearance, graduation fees, and licensure exam costs. Most online undergraduate degrees cost anywhere from $12,216 to $20,388 (EducationData.org, 2025)[3]. Meanwhile, the average tuition for nursing education is $9,450 (in-state) to $27,750 (out-of-state) (College Tuition Compare, 2025).

Students comparing affordable programs should look beyond advertised tuition. Even some RN to BSN cheapest online options may become more expensive if the school accepts fewer transfer credits, charges high technology fees, or requires additional general education courses.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Delaware?

The time required to become a nurse in Delaware depends on the license you pursue and whether you study full time, part time, online, or through a bridge program. Becoming an RN often takes around four to five years when the timeline includes prerequisite coursework, nursing classes, clinical experiences, graduation, NCLEX preparation, and completion of Delaware licensure steps.

Planning matters because the Delaware Board of Nursing requires RN applicants to take the exam within a year of graduation. Students should map their testing, application, transcript submission, and background-check timeline before the final semester so licensure delays do not interrupt employment plans.

CNA training and LPN schools in Delaware can take less than a year to two years, depending on program structure. RN-to-BSN programs usually take one to three years, largely because completion time depends on transfer credit, course load, and whether the student can take classes continuously. Nurses who want to combine bachelor’s and graduate preparation may consider RN to MSN online programs if they are ready for a longer, more advanced academic commitment.

Can you become a nurse in Delaware with an online degree?

Yes, online nursing programs can help students and working nurses meet academic requirements, but the answer depends on the program type. RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP, and many bridge programs commonly deliver didactic coursework online. Pre-licensure nursing programs, however, still require hands-on clinical training, skills labs, simulations, or supervised practice experiences that cannot be completed entirely online.

Online learning can be especially useful for licensed nurses balancing rotating shifts, family responsibilities, and continuing employment. A survey found that 57.8% of nursing students who had access to technology recognized this as a catalyst for both professional and personal growth (Collins, 2024).

If you are comparing RN-to-BSN, LPN-to-BSN, or graduate options, confirm that the format fits your schedule and that any required clinical or practicum placements are available in your area. Students considering LPN to BSN online programs should be especially careful to verify whether the program is designed for their license status and state of residence.

Accreditation is also central. Programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) have undergone external academic review. However, accreditation alone does not replace state licensure verification. Before enrolling, confirm that the program’s coursework and clinical arrangements align with Delaware Board of Nursing expectations for your intended license or credential.

Online Nursing Programs in Delaware for 2026

The programs below include online nursing options in Delaware and nearby or nationally accessible institutions. Use this list as a starting point, not as your only decision tool. Before applying, verify the latest tuition, accreditation status, transfer policy, residency eligibility, clinical requirements, and whether the program supports your exact licensure or advancement goal.

How to use this program list

• Start with your license status. A program built for current RNs may not be appropriate for LPNs or students without a nursing license.
• Compare total cost, not only cost per credit. A lower per-credit price may not save money if the school requires more credits.
• Ask how transfer credits are evaluated. RN-to-BSN completion speed often depends on how much prior coursework the school accepts.
• Confirm accreditation directly. Look up the program through CCNE or ACEN and ask whether accreditation applies to your specific program track.
• Check state authorization. If you live in Delaware but enroll in an out-of-state online program, confirm that the school can enroll Delaware residents and support any required clinical components.

Is Delaware good for nurses?

Delaware can be a strong state for nurses who want access to Mid-Atlantic healthcare employers, compact-state mobility, and a relatively manageable geographic footprint. Whether it is the right state for you depends on your preferred practice setting, salary expectations, commute, specialty, and long-term career plan.

1. Cost of living is close to the national baseline. Delaware has a cost of living of 102.6, which places it slightly above the national baseline. The state’s no sales tax structure, low property taxes, and moderate income tax rate may help nurses manage household expenses, although individual affordability depends on location and personal finances.
2. Compact status can improve mobility. Delaware is among the compact states, which can make multistate practice easier for eligible nurses. APRNs should still verify current practice authority, compact privileges, and state-specific rules before accepting cross-border or telehealth work.
3. Population diversity supports broad clinical exposure. Delaware lands at 58 on the diversity index. As of 2025, the majority of the population is still White, while 21.94% of residents account for Black communities, 4.09% are Asians, and 7.64% have two or more races (Neilsberg, 2025). Nurses interested in community health, culturally responsive care, and population-based practice may find this context valuable.
4. Healthcare performance is competitive in several areas. Delaware ranked 14th in performing preventive care and treatment and third among Mid-Atlantic states in providing avoidable hospital use and cost. These indicators suggest a healthcare environment with attention to prevention, utilization, and care quality.
5. NCLEX outcomes are strong. In 2024, the total pass rate of first-time NCLEX-RN exam takers in Delaware was 93.51%, higher than the national average of 91.78% (Delaware Division of Professional Regulation, 2024). Students should still review school-specific pass rates because statewide results do not guarantee outcomes at every program.

Delaware’s Demand for Travel Nursing and Temporary Healthcare Roles

Temporary nursing roles can appeal to Delaware nurses who want schedule flexibility, exposure to different care settings, or short-term assignments in the Mid-Atlantic region. Hospitals and healthcare facilities may use travel nurses, per diem nurses, and temporary clinicians when patient volume changes, staffing needs shift, or seasonal illness increases demand.

Travel nursing can offer flexible contracts, competitive pay structures, and housing stipends, but it also comes with trade-offs. Nurses may need to adapt quickly to new charting systems, unit cultures, staffing ratios, and employer expectations. Contract pay can also change based on market conditions, specialty, and assignment location.

Delaware’s location near Philadelphia and Baltimore can make it attractive to nurses who want regional mobility without relocating far from the Mid-Atlantic. Local RNs, including those exploring nurse practitioner programs in Delaware, may also use per diem work to test specialties, supplement income, or maintain flexibility while completing graduate coursework.

To compete for travel or temporary assignments, keep your license active, maintain required certifications, document clinical competencies, and build experience in high-need areas such as critical care, emergency care, pediatrics, or other specialty units. Always verify state practice requirements before accepting a role, especially if the assignment involves cross-state practice or telehealth.

What are the licensure renewal and continuing education requirements for nurses in Delaware?

Delaware nurses must keep their licenses current by following state renewal rules, completing required continuing education when applicable, and maintaining documentation that supports ongoing competency. Renewal cycles typically occur biennially and may include education tied to patient safety, current practice standards, and regulatory updates. Nurses with specialty certifications may also need to meet separate continuing education requirements from their certifying organizations.

Because renewal rules can change, nurses should confirm requirements directly with the Delaware Board of Nursing before the renewal deadline. For a step-by-step overview of the pathway into RN practice, see this guide on how to become an RN in Delaware.

What can I do with a nursing degree in Delaware?

A nursing degree can lead to bedside care, public health, specialty practice, advanced practice, education, case management, leadership, informatics, and non-clinical healthcare roles. Compensation is one important reason many students compare nursing pathways. Among the major nursing career benefits, Delaware wage data is a key consideration: RNs earn as much as $85,020 yearly (BLS, 2023a), LPNs make $57,360, and NPs take home $120,570 each year.

Employment projections also support careful consideration of nursing as a Delaware career path. RNs are projected to increase by 5% while employment of APRNs will balloon up to 35% from 2024 to 2034 (O*Net Online, n.d.-a; n.d.-b). The Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metropolitan area, which includes parts of Delaware, also provides an employment number of 25.04 for every thousand jobs (BLS, 2023b). These figures indicate opportunity, but individual outcomes still depend on specialty, experience, credentials, location, and employer demand.

Does a BSN Offer a Significant Advantage Over an RN in Delaware?

A BSN can offer a meaningful advantage for many Delaware RNs, especially those who want broader career mobility, leadership preparation, graduate school eligibility, or access to roles that prefer or require bachelor’s-level education. An ADN can still lead to RN licensure, but a BSN typically adds coursework in population health, evidence-based practice, research, leadership, and systems-level care.

The right choice depends on timing and finances. Students who need a faster or lower-cost entry to RN licensure may begin with an ADN and later complete a BSN. Students who know they want leadership, advanced practice, or graduate study may benefit from starting with or quickly progressing to a BSN. For a deeper comparison, review this explanation of RN vs BSN.

How do I evaluate the quality of nursing programs in Delaware?

A quality nursing program should be accredited, transparent about outcomes, aligned with licensure expectations, and supported by adequate clinical learning opportunities. Do not rely only on rankings, marketing language, or advertised completion speed.

Start by confirming accreditation and reviewing recent NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, and graduate employment information when available. Then examine the curriculum for current clinical practice, simulation learning, interprofessional education, patient safety, informatics, leadership, and evidence-based care. If you want broader healthcare exposure, related pathways such as medical assistant programs in Delaware can help you understand other patient care training models, but they do not replace nursing education or licensure requirements.

Which Online Nursing Program Offers the Fastest RN to BSN Transition?

The fastest RN-to-BSN program is usually the one that accepts the most applicable transfer credits, offers frequent start dates, uses short terms or self-paced scheduling, and allows students to complete requirements without unnecessary course repetition. A short advertised timeline is not enough; you need to confirm how the timeline applies to your transcript.

Working nurses should compare course load expectations carefully. An accelerated program can save time, but it may be difficult during rotating shifts, overtime, family obligations, or major life transitions. If speed is your main priority, compare options like the easiest RN to BSN program while still verifying accreditation, rigor, transfer policies, and employer recognition.

What job placement support do Delaware nursing programs offer?

Many nursing programs support students through career advising, resume assistance, interview preparation, job boards, networking events, employer partnerships, and clinical relationships with hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. These services can be especially valuable for students seeking a first nursing job or nurses changing specialties.

Ask specific questions before enrolling. Which employers recruit graduates? Are clinical placements connected to hiring pipelines? Does the program track employment outcomes? Are services available to online students? Choosing from accredited nursing schools in Delaware can help narrow the field, but students should still evaluate each school’s career support in detail.

What are the admission requirements for nursing programs in Delaware?

Admission requirements vary by level. Pre-licensure programs may require official transcripts, prerequisite coursework, minimum GPA, science courses, standardized testing, CPR certification, immunization records, background checks, drug screening, and documentation of essential skills. RN-to-BSN programs typically require an active RN license or eligibility, prior nursing coursework, transcripts, and general education completion.

Applicants with healthcare experience may have an advantage, but experience does not usually replace required coursework or licensure steps. Students considering a practical nursing entry point can review how to become an LVN nurse in Delaware for additional context on early nursing pathways and licensing steps.

What are the steps to become a nurse practitioner in Delaware?

To become a nurse practitioner in Delaware, an RN typically completes graduate-level nursing education, earns national certification in a population focus, completes required clinical preparation, and applies for the appropriate Delaware advanced practice authorization. Programs may lead to an MSN, DNP, or post-graduate certificate depending on the nurse’s prior education.

NP preparation includes advanced health assessment, pharmacology, diagnostics, pathophysiology, clinical decision-making, and supervised practice in the chosen specialty. Requirements vary by specialty and certification body, so prospective students should confirm that the program aligns with Delaware rules and national certification standards. For a detailed pathway, see this guide on how to become a nurse practitioner in Delaware.

What non-clinical healthcare roles are available in Delaware?

Nursing education can also support careers outside traditional bedside care. Delaware healthcare employers need professionals in administration, informatics, quality improvement, utilization review, care coordination, compliance, population health, education, and revenue cycle operations. Some roles require clinical nursing experience, while others can be entered through healthcare administration or technical training.

For students who are interested in the administrative side of healthcare, learning how to become a medical biller and coder in Delaware can provide a different route into healthcare operations. This path is not a nursing role, but it can appeal to people who want healthcare stability without direct clinical practice.

How do I become a nurse midwife in Delaware?

Nurse midwives provide care related to pregnancy, birth, reproductive health, and newborn support within their authorized scope. In Delaware, this pathway generally starts with becoming an RN, gaining relevant clinical experience, and completing an approved graduate-level nurse midwifery program or certificate pathway.

Candidates should expect advanced clinical requirements, specialty coursework, certification testing, and state licensure or authorization steps. Because nurse midwifery is an advanced practice role, verify program accreditation, clinical placement support, certification eligibility, and Delaware-specific requirements before applying. For a more complete roadmap, review how to become a nurse midwife in Delaware.

How can I become an LPN in Delaware?

Becoming an LPN is one of the more accessible licensed nursing routes in Delaware. Students complete an approved practical nursing program with classroom learning and supervised clinical training, then pass the NCLEX-PN and apply for Delaware licensure.

This pathway can prepare graduates for direct patient care and may also serve as a bridge toward RN education later. Students should compare program approval, NCLEX-PN preparation, clinical sites, total cost, and progression agreements. For step-by-step details, see how to become an LPN in Delaware.

Career Advancement and Specializations in Nursing in Delaware

Nurses in Delaware can advance by earning higher degrees, gaining specialty experience, completing certifications, moving into leadership, or shifting into advanced practice. The best route depends on whether you want more direct patient care, more autonomy, higher-level decision-making, teaching responsibilities, or administrative influence.

A Doctor of Nursing Practice can support advanced practice, executive leadership, education, quality improvement, and policy-oriented roles. DNP-prepared nurses may work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, academic settings, private practices, or healthcare organizations. The degree requires substantial time and financial investment, so nurses should compare program cost, clinical requirements, certification eligibility, and career outcomes before enrolling.

Nurses who prefer high-acuity direct care may consider becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. ACNPs work with patients who have serious or complex conditions, often in hospital or critical care settings. Flexible options such as online acute care nurse practitioner programs can help working nurses complete didactic coursework, though clinical experiences still require hands-on placement.

Other common specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, clinical leadership, informatics, case management, and quality improvement. Each path has different certification, clinical, and employer requirements, so nurses should choose based on preferred patient population, work environment, schedule, and long-term advancement goals.

What are the scholarship and financial aid options for online nursing students in Delaware?

Online nursing students in Delaware can reduce costs by combining federal aid, state programs, institutional scholarships, employer tuition benefits, and professional association awards. The best strategy is to apply early, ask each school for a full cost estimate, and confirm whether online students qualify for the same awards as campus students.

• State-sponsored scholarships and grants: Delaware agencies may offer support for residents pursuing nursing education. The Delaware Nursing Incentive Program is one example of funding tied to a commitment to work in the state’s healthcare facilities after graduation.
• University scholarships: Schools with nursing programs, including Wilmington University, may offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. Students should ask the financial aid office whether awards apply to online, part-time, RN-to-BSN, MSN, or DNP students.
• Federal financial aid: Eligible students can complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal grants, such as the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), as well as federal student loans.
• Professional nursing associations: Groups such as the Delaware Nurses Association (DNA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA) may offer scholarships or educational awards, often with membership or degree-level requirements.
• Employer tuition reimbursement: Some Delaware healthcare employers help nurses pay for additional education. Ask whether the benefit requires a minimum grade, continued employment commitment, approved school list, or annual reimbursement cap.

How to lower the cost of an online nursing degree

1. Request a written transfer-credit evaluation before committing to a program.
2. Compare total program cost, not only tuition per credit.
3. Ask your employer about tuition reimbursement, clinical partnerships, and preferred-school discounts.
4. Apply for federal, state, school-based, and association scholarships before each deadline.
5. Avoid taking unnecessary courses by confirming degree requirements with an advisor in writing.

Salary Potential for DNPs in Delaware and Beyond

A DNP can prepare nurses for advanced practice, leadership, education, and systems-level roles, but salary outcomes depend on specialty, employer, experience, certification, location, and scope of responsibility. DNP-prepared nurses may work as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, executives, educators, or quality leaders, depending on their pathway and credentials.

In Delaware, DNP professionals may work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, academic settings, and healthcare organizations. Because graduate nursing education can be expensive, prospective DNP students should compare tuition, clinical placement support, certification eligibility, expected debt, and realistic salary outcomes before enrolling. For broader salary comparisons, review this state-by-state resource on how much do DNPs make.

How can I meet the nursing license requirements in Delaware?

To meet Delaware nursing license requirements, applicants must complete the required nursing education, submit official documentation, pass the appropriate NCLEX exam when required, complete background checks, and follow the Delaware Board of Nursing application process. Nurses must also renew their licenses on schedule and comply with continuing education or competency requirements that apply to their role.

Licensure is too important to assume. Before enrolling in any program, ask the school whether graduates are eligible for the Delaware license you intend to pursue, and confirm the answer with the Board when necessary. For a focused checklist, review the nursing license requirements in Delaware.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Delaware Nursing Program

Improve Patient Care with Nursing Programs in Delaware

The strongest nursing program for you is the one that fits your current license, supports your Delaware career goal, meets accreditation and licensure expectations, and provides enough flexibility to finish without unnecessary debt or delay. For many working RNs, accredited online RN to BSN programs offer a practical way to build bachelor’s-level preparation while continuing to serve patients.

A BSN, MSN, DNP, or specialty certificate can expand your clinical knowledge, improve readiness for leadership or advanced practice, and help you respond to changing healthcare needs. Still, the value of any program depends on fit. Compare outcomes, cost, clinical support, transfer credits, and employer recognition before making a final decision.

Key Insights

• Delaware offers multiple nursing entry points. Students can begin as CNAs, LPNs, ADN-prepared RNs, or BSN students, while licensed nurses can advance through RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP, and certificate pathways.
• Licensure should guide your school choice. LPNs and RNs must complete the appropriate education and NCLEX process, and applicants should verify Delaware Board of Nursing requirements before enrolling.
• Costs vary widely. Tuition ranges from $4,995 at in-state public two-year institutions to $39,400 at private nonprofit four-year institutions, and online students should also budget for fees, books, clinical compliance, and licensure costs.
• Online programs are useful but not always fully remote. RN-to-BSN and graduate coursework may be online, but clinical, lab, practicum, or pre-licensure requirements often involve in-person experiences.
• A BSN can strengthen long-term mobility. ADN routes can lead to RN licensure, but a BSN may improve preparation for leadership, specialty practice, and graduate study.
• Delaware has competitive nursing indicators. RNs earn as much as $85,020 yearly, LPNs make $57,360, and NPs take home $120,570 each year, while Delaware’s 2024 first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate was 93.51%.
• The best program is not always the fastest or cheapest. Accreditation, transfer credit, clinical support, state authorization, student services, and total cost should drive the final decision.

References:

1. Carson-Newman. (2025). By the Numbers: Nursing Statistics 2025. https://onlinenursing.cn.edu/news/nursing-by-the-numbers
2. Delaware Health and Social Services. (n.d.). Community characteristics. https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/locations/state/community-characteristics
3. O*Net Online. (n.d.-a). Delaware employment trends Registered nurses. https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1141.00?st=DE
4. O*Net Online. (n.d.-b). Delaware employment trends Nurse practitioners. https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1171.00?st=DE
5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Registered Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm